The leafy streets of Fendalton are renowned for featuring many homes of distinction, and beyond and street fronting properties there are many hidden gems tucked down pristine driveways on prime sites that overlook the Avon. Neither passing motorists nor pedestrians would have any indication of the treasure located at the end of the drive at No 41 Totara Street.
Designed by Don Donnithorne in the late 1990s, this charming and generous family home is positioned on 756 square metres of north facing landscaped garden that slopes gently down to the river. The two storey Tuscan styled home is clad in honey coloured Australian block, bagged to create an ageless look and trimmed with rich red bricks to accentuate the warmth and colour of the timber prominently featured on the interior.
At the entrance, a large palm under planted with daphne, roses, rhododendrons and mondo grass creates a stunning - and deliciously scented - frame to the broad front doors. First impressions are very impressive. The spacious entry foyer is framed by etched glass panels and large glass doors that lead to the kitchen, living, dining and lounge areas. The open plan design of the rooms creates an easy flow for entertaining. Each space is sited to take advantage of the sun and views to the magnificent garden. Bifold doors along the north facade allow a seamless flow to the terrace where large terracotta tiles are repeated inside and out. A pergola interlaced with wisteria gives the impression of an Italian villa frontage where outdoors can be enjoyed year round. A spa pool is a feature of the private garden.
A guest bedroom and beautifully styled bathroom adjoin a cosy lounge, where inbuilt shelving and a lowered ceiling at one end creates an intimate nook. A study, cleverly concealed behind bifolding doors adjacent to the family room, is also located downstairs. Upstairs, two bathrooms and three bedrooms - including the master and superb ensuite - overlook the garden below.
The home has been built to the most impeccable standard and features many unique and extravagant inclusions: zone controlled underfloor heating, a Bose sound system inside and out, a sophisticated security system, cedar blinds and double garaging with internal access. Low-E double glaze windows are finished in aluminium on the exterior and wooden reveals on the interior. Upstairs, an Austrian internal blind system between the double glazing, accentuates the clean and uncluttered lines of the interior decor.
In a suburb where architectural excellence is celebrated, this home stands out as a King admist peers.
School Zones - Christchurch Boys High, and Christchurch Girls' High.